5 Things To Do: With Kids In Sonoma County

A trip to Wine Country can be fun for the whole family. From imaginary play to an African safari… here are 5 great things to do if you’re visiting Wine Country with little ones.

Children’s Museum of Sonoma County

If you are traveling with an inquisitive little one that enjoys hands on activities then you’ll need to add a stop at the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County to your list. Children are encouraged to touch and explore through various hands on stations including a child size farmer’s market, an arts and crafts room, various water stations and a miniature Russian River stocked full of “salmon”.

The staff is extremely helpful and always happy to take a moment to engage with their small visitors. This non-profit museum is currently expanding its indoor play area to include a Science/Imagination Space as well as TOTtopia.

Good For: Kids under 10 that enjoy imaginary hands-on-play

WineCountry Tip: Take a moment to sit on a bench and view the Museum from your child’s vantage point. You’ll quickly realize what a magical place this truly is.

If you have an animal lover on your trip then surprise them with a visit to Safari west. We’re sure you weren’t expecting to visit an African Safari on your trip to Wine Country, but this exotic wildlife preserve is a stop you and your family won’t want to miss.

Get up close and personal with giraffes, zebras, antelopes, gazelles, wildebeests and many other animals – Safari West is home to over 700 animals! Book a three hour tour and explore the 400 acre preserve in a rugged jeep, and by foot!

Good For: Kids over three that want to get upclose and personal with animals.

WineCountry Tip: There’s luxury glamping at Safari West! Spend the night in one of the luxury tents located on the preserve. Be sure to book a private massage in the luxury tent, you planned a great trip – you deserve it!

Train Town

Located just one mile South of the wine filled Sonoma Plaza is Train Town, the perfect place to spend a few hours with your tiny conductor. Train Town is home to over 4 miles of railroad on which it operates a quarter scale road rail. Each ride takes 20 minutes and will take you, and your child, through tunnels and over bridges.

Train Town also has six amusement rides and a petting zoo! We promise – your kids will thank you!

Good For: Kids looking for fresh air.

WineCountry Tip:Grab a pint afterwards across the street at HopMonk. We know after a long day making your child smile you’ll be ready for a cold beverage. HopMonk is known for cultivating an impressive seasonal craft beer list.

Powell’s Sweet Shoppe

Windsor is a great place to stay when visiting in Sonoma County. It’s centrally located in between Healdsburg, Sonoma and West County – all great places for wine! It’s an even better place to stay when you’re traveling with someone who has a sweet tooth.Powell’s Sweet Shoppe, located in Windsor’s town green, is a blast from the past with homage to a vintage candy shop. The shelves are stocked with everything from vintage inspired candy to gourmet wine country treats. This colorful shop is sure to put a smile on your family’s face.

Good For: Kids of all ages with a sweet tooth.

WineCountry Tip: Be sure to pick up some of the one of their gourmet dark chocolates – and pair it with a Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel.

Charles M. Schultz Museum and Ice Rink

Did you know that Santa Rosa is the home of the loved characters Snoopy and Charlie Brown? Your kids will enjoy finding statues of their favorite Peanuts characters throughout the town of Santa Rosa. For the full Snoopy experience be sure to visit the Charles Schultz Museum.

At the museum you’ll be able to view original works by the acclaimed Charles M. Schulz. A walk across the street will land you at Snoopy’s Home Ice, a local favorite ice rink for all ages. Lace up some skates and get out on the ice with your family!